Colorado Avalanche Warning Issued for Western Slope

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The Colorado Avalanche Information Center has issued a high avalanche danger warning for the Grand Mesa, San Juan Mountains, and several other mountainous areas in western Colorado over the next 48 hours. Fresh snowfall and strong winds have created unstable snowpack conditions that could lead to large, dangerous avalanches triggered by skiers, snowmobilers, or even just a single person.

Why it matters

Avalanche warnings are critical for public safety in Colorado's mountain communities, where outdoor recreation is a way of life. With the high risk of avalanches, authorities are urging caution and preparedness for anyone venturing into the backcountry this weekend.

The details

The avalanche danger has spiked due to a combination of fresh snowfall adding weight to a snowpack that has not bonded well to the underlying layers. This has created wind and snow slabs that are primed to break loose, increasing the likelihood of avalanches being triggered by skiers, snowmobilers, and others in the backcountry. Key zones flagged for high avalanche danger include the Grand Mesa, Flat Tops, Elkhead Mountains, West Elk Mountains, and San Juan Mountains.

• The Colorado Avalanche Information Center issued the high avalanche danger warning on March 1, 2026.
• The warning is in effect for the next 24-48 hours, through the weekend.

What’s next

Authorities recommend that anyone planning to recreate in the backcountry this weekend check the latest avalanche forecasts from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center and be prepared with essential rescue gear like beacons and shovels.